Bay Ridge high school student earns leadership award

Bay Ridge high school student earns leadership award

By Paula Katinas

Brooklyn Daily Eagle

A Bay Ridge high school senior is getting some help paying his college costs, thanks to a scholarship from a fraternal organization dedicated to assisting Latino youth.

Joel Acevedo, a senior at Fort Hamilton High School, has been awarded a $2,000 scholarship from Unidad Latina. He is one of 15 college-bound high school seniors recognized by Unidad Latina.

State Sen. Marty Golden (R-Bay Ridge) nominated Joel for the scholarship. Golden recently met with the student to personally congratulate him on the award.

“Joel is a distinguished young man who has already proven his commitment to both his community and education. I am confident that he will excel in his future education and I am proud to have nominated him for this scholarship,” Golden said.

Joel is an outstanding student, according to Fort Hamilton officials, who said that in addition to his strong academic record, he is active in numerous extra-curricular activities and has demonstrated leadership skills.

Joel is president of the school’s Drama Society and was recently named winner of the Shakespeare Award. He is also involved in student orientations and school welcome events, officials said.

The Unidad Latina scholarship applications were reviewed by an independent committee. The scholarships were awarded to students who have demonstrated academic achievement and community service.

Joel was presented the award last week at a luncheon that was part of the Unidad Latina Conference.

Unidad Latina was founded at Cornell University in 1982. Students who take part in the organization’s Leadership Development Process are referred to as caballeros.

A caballero signifies a gentlemen, or knight, in Spanish. Under the rules of Unidad Latina, caballeros are expected to conduct themselves with respect and chivalry at all times.